Ritchie Sutton: Mansfield Town face tough challenge against League Two’s best attack

Ritchie Sutton believes Mansfield Town will need to stand tall against what he says is the best attacking side in League Two.
Ritchie SuttonRitchie Sutton
Ritchie Sutton

Mansfield make the short 14 mile trip to Chesterfield on Saturday looking to become the first side to take League Two points off Spireites at the Proact Stadium this season.

The league-leaders possess a number of excellent attacking options, including star winger Gary Roberts who has already bagged four goals this campaign.

And Sutton knows that fifth-placed Mansfield face what could be their sternest challenge of the season.

“We will have to be on our game because they have probably got the best attack in the division,” he said.

“Chesterfield are doing well at the moment and are top of the league, but we are unbeaten in seven and in good form ourselves so it is going to be a tight game.

“It is going to be a great challenge for us and it is important we stay solid. All I can do is my job and that will be staying solid and keep a clean sheet.”

“It is a great game for the fans, it is all they are talking about.

“I have not played in two many derby games and this will be the biggest one I play in if I am selected.

“It is a sell-out and the atmosphere is going to be fantastic. The preparations and atmosphere is going to be different from most weeks, but we just have to focus on what is happening on the pitch.”

The solid defender has missed just one game for Stags this season and believes he is playing some of the best football of his career.

He added: “I feel I am playing some of my best football, playing as part of three central defenders has really helped my game and I am just looking to keep it going.

“Sometimes when you make the step up and play against better players it is easier to make the adjustment.

“Good players make the same runs and do the same things, you get to know what to expect week in week out where it is not the same consistent standard in the Conference.”

Mansfield are expected to retain the same line-up from the 3-0 win over Northampton with Ryan Tafazolli replacing the suspended Martin Riley.